Learn

The history of Tsurugaoka Hachimangu can be traced back to the relationship between Yoritomo Minamoto and Hachiman kami.

Traditional culture that has been passed down from the samurai era to the present.

The development of Kamakura over time based on the histories of the Shinto shrines in the area.

Many important historical sites remain in and around Tsurugaoka Hachimangu.

See

The shrine buildings and landmarks on the grounds of the temple, which remain barely changed, offer a sense of eternity.

This is a story of history, told through the many historical sites that remain outside the shrine grounds.

National treasures and important cultural properties that have been passed down within Tsurugaoka Hachimangu since the days of the samurai.

Natural scenery and seasonal festivals.

Prayers and Amulets

We conduct prayers for the fulfillment of your wishes.

These are rituals to celebrate and offer prayers of thanksgiving to people on various occasions in their lives, such as the Shichi-Go-San festival and Yakuyoke.

We pray for the fulfillment of your wishes and offer good luck charms.

Activities

The latest information about festivals, events, and news from the shrine.

Environmental, educational and cultural activities that we work on together with you.

Information on martial arts training, educational classes, religious organizations, and other groups and courses that anyone can participate in.

A guide to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu’s related facilities, including the Tsurugaoka kindergarten and Tsurugaoka Bunko.

Quarterly magazines and books that will help you better understand your faith and culture.

Activities

Tsurunoko-kai Children’s Association

The Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Tsurunoko-kai (Children’s Association) was started in 2006 as the children's group of the Tsurugaoka Hachimangu. The aim of the group is to convey a sense of respect for our ancestors and gratitude for nature to as many children as possible through activities related to traditional Japanese culture and annual events held mainly on the grounds of Tsurugaoka Hachimangu.

Activities

Examples of our activities

Summer Firefly Festival

We will participate in the Firefly Release Festival at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu. After listening to a story about fireflies, the children participate in a ritual at the shrine, watch fireflies together and learn about the preciousness of life.

Summer Vacation Tsurugaoka Forest School

During the summer vacation period, the Forest School is a week-long program of learning on a variety of topics, with grades 1-6 coming together to experience the nature outside the shrine grounds and stay overnight on the grounds (older students only). It is truly an invaluable experience.

Autumn Rice Harvest

We visit the paddies where we planted rice in June to hold a ritual for the rice harvest before then harvesting the rice with local elementary school students. The rice that is harvested by the children is presented to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu.

Winter Omochitsuki

We have a mochi-making event every year at Tsurunoko-kai where we learn about Japanese customs and make rice cakes to offer to the yearly deity. We also prepare for the year ahead by eating the freshly made mochi.

Spring Parent and Child Classes

This is the last class of the year for parents and children. Students who have successfully completed the year's activities are awarded a certificate of completion. For 6th graders, there is a graduation ceremony and they receive a graduation certificate from Tsurunoko-kai.

Tsurunoko-kai Information

How to Apply: We ask that you complete the membership application form and pay the annual membership fee. For more information, please contact us by email.
Eligibility: Children in grades 1-6 of elementary school
Annual Fee: 3,000 yen
※Depending on the event, there may be a separate fee for participation.
Application Period: We are always looking for people to join us.

E-mail:international-affairs＠hachimangu.or.jp